Take it or leave it: expected U.S.-brokered deal could end Gaza war

Negotiations underway in Sharm el-Sheikh over a ceasefire in Gaza are intensifying as a deadline approaches, amid an intensive U.S. push to reach a final agreement in the coming days.

According to Israel’s Channel 12, Tel Aviv expects to conclude a ceasefire and a hostage-exchange deal by the end of the week if talks proceed according to the U.S. plan. But if the talks stall, Washington may present a final settlement based on a principle of “Take it or leave it” to quickly end the round of negotiations.

Cautious optimism in Israel

Sources familiar with the matter told the Israeli channel that an agreement could be announced early next week and signed by its end if no sudden changes occur. Israeli political and security officials expressed optimism that a deal could be reached soon, saying the next few days will be decisive.

Meanwhile, Tel Aviv is anxious about Hamas’s demands concerning prisoner lists, withdrawal lines, and release timetables—issues Israel considers highly sensitive.

Unprecedented U.S. pressure

Channel 12 said Israeli optimism stems from the “extraordinary determination” shown by Washington and international mediators to close the file and reach a final agreement. However, U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have not yet arrived in Egypt, and Israeli minister Ron Dermer has not yet joined the negotiating delegation.

Hamas’s conditions and Tel Aviv’s positions

During the second day of talks, Hamas said the release of the last Israeli captive would not take place until Israeli occupation forces have fully withdrawn from the Gaza Strip.

By contrast, Israel insists on receiving all living captives in a single day as part of any final agreement.

Channel 12 also reported that Hamas is demanding the release of Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti and other senior figures, a demand Israel has so far rejected. Tel Aviv fears these demands could harden Hamas’s positions, especially given U.S. pressure for rapid progress.

Restrictions on the Israeli delegation

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the negotiating team in Egypt not to exceed their mandate and to focus only on ceasefire and prisoner-exchange issues, without engaging in any discussions concerning the continuation of military operations.

As the talks near a decisive moment, Washington says it is determined to conclude this round within a few days, amid regional and international anticipation over the outcome of the efforts.